Big Bend, Black Diamond, and Outer Banks (all with the mid package) differ less than you might think in late 2024, it's a different story if you are looking at a 2023 Bronco.
They all have the same Hitachi suspension unless you get the Sasquatch package. If you get the locking rear differential, there is nearly no significant difference between the 4.27 and 4.46 differentials (4%). So for example, if you are spinning the engine at 2000 rpm with the 4.27, you would be turning 2080 rpm with the 4.46 rear... That's noise.
Don't look at the trims so much, look at the features and the price point. The Black Diamond does have additional skid plates, but for light off-roading, it is not a big deal and easily added later. I got my standard set skid plates for under $200 from others on my OBX, but I paid extra for the Raptor transmission skid plate (which is not part of the standard set).
If you are seriously looking at $49k, I would urge you to consider the Heritage Edition Bronco for just a few bucks more because of the Sasquatch package, unless you must have adaptive cruise control. It's possible to add adaptive cruise control to an older (pre-2024) Bronco with the high package, but I am unsure about the outcome using the mid package.
I have the Outer Banks lux package without the Sasquatch package and it is very capable off-road (but I also have the 2.7 engine, advanced 4x4 transfer case, and rear locker). The bottom line is that it's very capable despite the lack of a front locker. It's even more capable after a bunch of FORSCAN tweaks and other minor modifications.
The one thing that would be a pain to change is the flooring, so if you want wash out floors, get one that is not carpeted from the factory.
In my mind, for a late 2024, I would probably pick the non-sasquatch Badlands as my first choice, Heritage Edition second, and Black Diamond third. I love my Outer Banks, but since removing the 2.7, advanced 4x4 transfer case, cloth seats, and the 2 door; it's not the vehicle to get any more.
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